Project Overview

The City of Berkeley has recently approved significant zoning changes aimed at supporting the development of a new life sciences campus at 1333 2nd Street. This initiative will be realized on the site formerly occupied by the Pacific Steel Casting facility.

Site Details and Development Plans

Spanning approximately 10 acres, the location will undergo extensive work, including the demolition of the inactive Pacific Steel Casting plant, which was closed in 2018, as well as the deconstruction of the adjacent Berkeley Forge and Tool building.

The current zoning permits only manufacturing uses. With the newly approved regulations, future developments can be evaluated for their potential within the project area, particularly the 8.16-acre section. These development plans are expected to remain in compliance with the proposed manufacturing-research and development (M-RD) zoning standards.

Future Expansion and Features

Future construction may encompass up to 900,000 square feet dedicated to research and development, office space, laboratory facilities, and light manufacturing. Furthermore, it has been designated that the project will provide around 1,900 parking spaces for vehicles. Proposed building heights will range from 55 to 105 feet.

Location Context

Strategically situated, the project site is bordered by key infrastructure: to the north lies Gilman Street, to the east is the Union Pacific and Amtrak rail corridor, to the south is Page Street, and the west is adjacent to the Eastshore Highway (I-80).